It’s not a modern concept to use the New Year as an opportunity to review and reset. The month of January takes its name from Janus, the Roman god of gates and doorways and he is depicted with two faces,… Read More ›
baking
Granary and Rye Loaf
To mis-quote an old saying, it’s not possible for all of the people to like you all of the time but it’s still very difficult not to take things to heart when easily resolvable situations escalate. I recently found myself… Read More ›
Blackberry Muffins
Foraging may not be everyone’s idea of a good time but if you haven’t tried it already, I recommend you give it a go. I find it’s both relaxing and quite compulsive once you start. And you get stuff! It… Read More ›
French Patisserie and a new kitchen
Never under-estimate exactly how much time, both mental and physical, will be taken up by building work on your house. I had thought that while my kitchen was being redone and I couldn’t work I would have the opportunity to… Read More ›
Homemade Granola
Homemade granola has always been one of those things I’m going to make. It’s been on my ‘To Do’ list for years. Literally. Admittedly it’s a very long list and there are plenty of things on it that should really… Read More ›
Orange and Almond Polenta Cake
It may still be spring but the promise of summer is already in the air. The light is changing, the days are noticeably longer and there are moments when you are suddenly reminded how good it is to really feel… Read More ›
Leftover Easter Egg Chocolate Cookies
Easter is over for another year but that doesn’t necessarily mean that the chocolate has all gone. If you still have a heap of Easter Egg chocolates cluttering up your surfaces you might find this recipe useful. Either swipe them… Read More ›
Rich Chocolate cake – just add mini eggs for Easter
If you gave up chocolate for Lent (why???) then you’ll be looking for some chocolately treats for Easter. If you follow the chocolate calendar you’ll know that mini eggs, creme eggs, Easter eggs and egg-shaped versions of all your favourite… Read More ›
Raspberry and Chocolate Macarons for Valentine’s Day (if you need an excuse)
Valentine’s Day gets a bad press. Tired, over-priced flowers, cheap chocolates and badly managed expectations. A bit like New Year’s Eve, you probably love it or hate it. Although unlike New Year’s Eve, your may find your relationship with Valentine’s… Read More ›
The School Bake Off and the Perfect Victoria Sponge
The popularity of shows like the Great British Bake Off is a double-edged sword for parents of 12 year olds. Just as a pillow case and a piece of tinsel are no longer an acceptable basis for an outfit for… Read More ›